National Freedom Front Deputy Leader Weerakumara Dissanayake said that the government has no reason to delay the investigations into the Central Bank bond scam, and if the government delays such a probe, it should explain reasons for the delay.

Speaking to the media today at the NFF headquarters, he said that the COPE has collected statements from various actors involved in the incident and there was enough material to launch an investigation.

The COPE decided to recommend legal action against former Central Bank Governor Mahendran after it decided that acts of criminal nature had taken place, Dissanayake said. The government should refrain from delaying tactics and carry out a prompt investigation with the involvement of the AG Department, the CID and other institutions, the MP added.

He also pointed out that the bond scam ultimately affected the interest rates and therefore the livelihood of the people.

Dissanayake is also a member of the COPE.